When it comes to video games, female characters may sometimes find it a little difficult to keep their dignity intact, in light of over-sexualization and the stereotyping as mere “damsels in distress” waiting to be rescued by the game’s mostly (not always, mind you) male protagonist. Now, that may have been the case when the majority of the members in the gaming community were guys. But times are changing. Women are gaining more recognition, becoming more and more kickass by the day, and if recent reports are correct, female gamers now outnumber their male counterparts. What better way to commemorate that than to celebrate badass women in the world of gaming? Here are 5 women who surely don’t need anyone’s protection.
Lara Croft : Tomb Raider
One of the most iconic female characters in video games, no such list would ever be complete without a mention of Lara Croft. The dual gun wielding, dungeon delving archaeologist-adventurer may have been designed as a male fantasy to begin with, but that doesn’t make her any less badass. Completing her 20th anniversary this year, we surely look forward to more of her adventures.
Elena Fisher: Uncharted
In addition to being incredibly talented, Elena Fisher plays a significant role in one of the best video game series ever made. She’s smart, witty and don’t forget, incredibly brave. In situations where we would run off crying to mommy, she stands firm and kicks ass. We’re pretty sure she can give Nathan Drake a run for his money.
Lightning: Final Fantasy
Lightning is one of the strongest female characters in the Final Fantasy lineup. She went from the narrator and a temporary playable character in Final Fantasy XIII-2 to the main character, (not to mention an absolute boss) of Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII. In the developer’s own words, “In past Final Fantasy titles, female characters in the leading role have traditionally been very… girl-you-want-to-protect… For Final Fantasy XIII, Lightning is not only beautiful, but she’s very strong. She has this independence. In battle, she’s very graceful in her movements, but she’s very powerful and she’s very speedy.”
Alyx Vance: Half-Life 2
Even after a decade after Half-Life 2 was released, Alyx Vance continues to be one of the best female video game characters. As you played a guy who wasn’t exactly fond of speaking, Vance essentially represents the personality of the game. She also goes on to break every stereotype there is: she’s no damsel, even though she is in distress. Also, she’s one of the least sexualized females in games.
Samus Aran: Metroid
In addition to being one of the least sexualized female video game character, this alien blasting, space-jumping bounty hunter has been winning our hearts since we were little kids. She has successfully paved the way for a lot of female protagonists, and was probably the first character to break the stereotype – no one imagined at that time that the hunter was a woman (I know, right?). She is the original badass heroine of the video game world.
Which are some of your favourite badass female characters? Share with us in the comments!
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